IBS interferes with your life and work and significantly impacts quality of life
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common digestive health concern in India that affects millions of people. The condition has a significant impact on the quality of life while carrying a high socio-economic burden. According to experts, it is a physical and mental illness, and its prevalence is gradually increasing—with high numbers in urban areas as compared to rural ones.
“With modern lifestyles characterized by increasing stress, poor dietary habits, and sedentary routi awareness and proper management of IBS are essential for improving the quality of life of patients,” Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker, Consultant Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon at MetaHeal—Laparoscopy and Bariatric Surgery Centre, told Times Now.
What is IBS?
IBS is a chronic functional disease causing changes in bowel function and pain in the abdomen. It also interferes with a patient’s normal life and work and significantly impacts their quality of life. “Anxiety and depression frequently accompany other symptoms of IBS. The symptoms tend to overlap with other digestive disorders like acidity, acid reflux, and inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease,” said Dr. Bhasker.
Along with anxiety and depression, those with IBS also get abdominal fullness, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, and constipation.
Why is IBS becoming more common?
A few reasons why more people are suffering from this disorder include:
Chronic stress and anxiety
There is a well-established connection between the gut and the brain. Increased stress levels, anxiety, and depression can disrupt gut function, triggering or exacerbating IBS symptoms. The fast-paced modern lifestyle often leads to chronic stress, making IBS more prevalent.
Unhealthy diet
Diet plays a crucial role in gut health. “High consumption of processed foods, excessive sugar, caffeine, and low-fiber diets can negatively impact digestion. Irregular meal timings and reliance on fast food have also contributed to the rise in IBS cases,” said Dr. Bhasker.
Gut microbiome imbalance
A healthy gut relies on a balanced microbiome. “Overuse of antibiotics, frequent infections, and poor dietary choices as shared above, can disrupt gut bacteria, increasing the risk of IBS,” she added.
Sedentary lifestyle
Lack of physical activity can slow digestion and contribute to IBS symptoms. An active lifestyle helps maintain gut motility and overall digestive health.
Food sensitivities
More people today experience intolerances to certain foods, such as dairy, fructose, and gluten, which can worsen IBS symptoms like bloating, cramping, gas, and irregular bowel movements. Food sensitivities can also contribute to fatigue, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, further aggravating IBS.
Ways to manage IBS and improve gut health
According to Dr. Bhasker, a few ways to manage the symptoms of IBS include:
- Increase fibre intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Include probiotics to promote healthy gut bacteria. Have meals on time.
- Drink plenty of water to aid digestion.
- Avoid trigger foods like spicy, fatty, and processed meals.
- Manage Stress Effectively
- Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises
- Ensure adequate sleep and engage in activities that promote mental well-being.
- Stay Active
- Engage in regular physical activity to support digestion and overall health.
- Monitor Dietary Triggers
- Keep a food diary to track symptoms and identify problem foods.
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